South Sarasota Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit South Sarasota
Popular places to visit
Lido Beach
Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Lido Beach, a popular beach in Sarasota. Wander the picturesque gardens or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
St. Armands Circle
Consider this area as a circular outdoor mall. Like any mall, you can shop, dine, browse or just people-watch. Unlike most malls, this one never closes to walkers.
Mall at University Town Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Mall at University Town Center during your trip to Sarasota. Attend a sporting event or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
See hungry sharks and delicate seahorses at this research aquarium that specializes in the sea life that flourishes on Florida’s central west coastline.
John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
You can spend time exploring the galleries in John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Nathan Benderson Park
Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Nathan Benderson Park, a lovely green space in Sarasota. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
Things to do
Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Siesta Key, FL - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Siesta Key Electric Bike Sunset Tour
Top hotels in South Sarasota
Kompose Boutique Hotel
"Very clean! & the vibes were perfect"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
"The location was really good and easy to access. The breakfast staff were very and helpful. The person who checked us in was very accommodating and helpful."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
"Very fantastic place to stay"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
"Fun property"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
"We enjoyed our stay, Kristin at the front desk was immensely helpful with restaurant recommendations."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites
"Loved the beach chairs and cooler provided to use at the beach. Appreciated the free ice and waters every morning. Perfect location by all the bars and restaurants, across the street from the beach, and right by a free trolley that took us all around."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around South Sarasota
Ridge Wood Heights
Ridge Wood Heights is well liked for its parks. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Sarasota area, you might plan a trip to The Landings or Siesta Key Beach.
Southgate
While there might not be top attractions in Southgate, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach.
Arlington Park
Though Arlington Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and Marina Jack.
South Gate Ridge
South Gate Ridge is well liked for its churches. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Sarasota area, you might plan a trip to Siesta Key Beach or Siesta Key Marina.
Gulf Gate Estates
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Gulf Gate Estates. Make a stop by top sights like Gulf Gate Golf Club while you're exploring the area.
Bird Key
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Bird Key and surrounding area, you can visit Lido Beach and South Lido Park.
